Antimicrobial lotion compositions

ABSTRACT

Methods of using absorption enhancer as a component of skin care compositions for moisturizing and protecting the skin. Antimicrobial skin care compositions for cleansing and moisturizing the skin, comprising an absorption enhancer, an antimicrobial function enhancer and bound lipid removals, humectants, emollients and extracts of botanical herbs. Methods for preparing skin care compositions comprising an absorption enhancer.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The invention relates generally to a method of making skin care productsand to methods of using such products. This invention also relates toskin care products which moisturize the skin and prevent excessivedrying of the skin.

This invention further relates to skin care products which areantimicrobial and help prevent infection by pathogenic microorganisms,and which mitigate against the spread of such pathogens.

In particular, the invention is concerned with formulations forcleansing and moisturizing skin which are antimicrobial, alcohol-free,contain no animal- or petroleum-based products, have a water base, andcomprise an absorption enhancer to promote rapid uptake of theformulation by the skin.

This invention still further relates to skin cleansing products whichare antimicrobial, and non-irritating and non-drying to the skin afterfrequent use. The instant invention further relates to skin moisturizingproducts which are non-greasy, which rapidly penetrate the outer layersof the skin, and which form a shield to prevent loss of moisture fromthe skin and to shield from exposure of chemicals and detergentscommonly found in health/industry works.

2. Background of the Related Art

Excessive drying of the skin is a common problem which is often theresult of exposure to wind, sun and low humidity, or a combination ofthese factors. Frequent washing of the hands can result in excessivedrying. This is particularly true if abrasive soaps, alcohol-basedproducts and other harsh chemicals are used for cleansing.

Skin that has been excessively dried is not only unsightly, but alsotends to slough off excessively and to crack, leading to abrasions ofthe skin surface. Because the skin serves a key role as a physicalbarrier to the entry of parasites and pathogens, excessive drying canlead to a breach of the barrier and infection by pathogenic bacteria andfungi. Thus cracks or openings in the skin serve as a portal of entryfor pathogens and potential pathogens. Even organisms that are normallyconsidered to be non-pathogens can result in opportunistic infection inimmunologically compromised individuals. Infections may be mild orsevere and may be localized to the initial site(s) of infection or maybe systemic and spread throughout the body. Such spread may occur bydirect extension to contiguous tissues, or by way of the lymphatics andultimately by way of the bloodstream.

Thus, the frequent application of many prior art skin cleansingcompositions contributes to skin damage, and therefore may indirectlyincrease the risk of skin infections. Many prior art skin moisturizerscontain petroleum products which dissolve latex gloves as worn byworkers in diverse fields, including the health care field.

Similarly, many prior art moisturizers contain animal-derived products,such as lanolin. It is known that certain animal-derived products maycause skin allergies and/or dermatitis.

Skin care products of the instant invention allow for frequent use ofthe products to protect the skin and prevent damage due to drying. In sodoing, skin care products under the invention help to prevent infectionof the skin itself and entry of pathogens through the skin where theymay infect underlying tissues.

Skin cleansing products of the instant invention are formulated not onlyto accommodate continued frequent use without causing drying andcracking of the skin but also, by the inclusion of one or moreantimicrobial agents, to prevent the transmission and spread ofpathogenic or potentially pathogenic microorganisms.

Skin care products of the instant invention are formulated to promotethe Absorption of the composition by the skin. In particular, skin careproducts of the instant invention comprise an absorption enhancingmaterial. The absorption enhancing material of choice under theinvention is a form of ceramic hydroxyapatite. Ceramic hydroxyapatiteunder the invention is in the form of macroporous spheres ofpredetermined size range, and is chemically pure. It is formed by theagglomeration of crystals of hydroxyapatite, of 0.5 to 1.0 micrometersize range, into spherical particles which are then sintered at hightemperature to provide mechanically stable spheres. Ceramichydroxyapatite which is useful in the practice of the instant inventionis exemplified by that manufactured by the Asahi Optical Company, Tokyo.Ceramic hydroxyapatite has been widely used as a chromatographicseparation medium (see, for example, R. Kasai et al. J. Chromatography407, 205 (1987); S. Tsuru et al. J. Immunol. Methods 106, 169 (1988); T.Kadoya et al. J. Liquid Chromatography 9,3543 (1986); T. Kadoya et al.J. Liquid Chromatography 11,2951 (1986).

Apart from ceramic hydroxyapatite referred to above, hydroxyapatite hasbeen produced in several other forms, each with a characteristicparticle morphology, size distribution and surface structure, asobserved by scanning electron microscopy (T. Kadoya et al. J. LiquidChromatography 9,3543 (1986).

Hydroxyapatite has also been ascribed various non-chromatographicapplications. For example, JP 254415 discloses cosmetic materialscontaining spherical hydroxyapatite. JP 266066 teaches amelanin-lightening composition including ethyl alcohol and sodiumhydroxide. JP 007409 teaches the use of hydroxyapatite for the selectiveremoval of protein from the body surface. JP 179074 discloses the use ofhydroxyapatite as an abrasive, to assist in the cleaning of inanimatesurfaces. JP 238429 discloses a blending agent, comprising polystyrenebeads coated with hydroxyapatite.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Skin moisturizing products of the present invention are formulated toprotect the skin and maintain the skin in a healthy condition. Skinmoisturizing products of the present invention are also formulated to beantimicrobial, thereby further reducing the risk of infection bypathogens. Furthermore, the antimicrobial properties of moisturizingproducts of the invention reduce the risk of transmission of pathogenicand potentially pathogenic microorganisms. Skin care products of theinstant invention are further formulated to rapidly penetrate the skin,whereby active ingredients of the formulation are more effective.

The compositions and methods of the instant invention may be used toprotect the integrity of the skin. The compositions and methods of theinstant invention may also be used to promote and maintain healthy skin.The skin cleansing compositions of the instant invention may be usedfrequently to prevent the spread of pathogenic or potentially pathogenicmicroorganisms. The skin cleansing compositions of the instant inventionmay also be used frequently on a continual basis with minimal risk ofcausing drying, irritation, inflammation, or damage to the skin. Theskin moisturizing compositions of the instant invention may be used tominimize the risk of irritation and infection. The skin cleansing andmoisturizing products of the instant invention do not dissolve latex andare fully compatible with the use of latex gloves. Thus, the skinmoisturizing compositions of the instant invention may be used withlatex gloves without the risk of dissolution of the latex or otherdamage to the latex barrier.

The methods and compositions of the invention may further be used topromote the rapid absorption of-biologically active components by theskin. In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, the skinmoisturizer composition may be used as a single application, orapplication may be repeated periodically over an extended time period asneeded.

In accordance with another method of the invention, a skin moisturizingcomposition, under the invention, may be applied specifically orpreferentially to the point or area of a minor cut, crack, or abrasionof the skin. Such application may protect the epidermis and the dermisfrom further damage or infection of the skin.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The skin or integumentary system is an essential, physiologically andanatomically specialized boundary lamina. It covers the entire externalsurface of the body. The total area of skin in an adult is between 1.2to 2.2 m2, and comprises about 10% of the total body mass, making it thelargest organ of the human body. Functionally, the skin acts as aninterface between the internal and external environment, and fulfillsthermoregulatory, sensory, and other functions, as well as playing a keyrole as a highly effective physical barrier against infectious agentsand dehydration. The skin also acts as a barrier against mechanical,chemical, osmotic, thermal and photic damage.

The condition of the skin is generally considered, by medicalpractitioners and lay people alike, to reflect the state of health, ageand other aspects of life of an individual.

Histologically, three major tissue layers are identified. The uppermostlayer, the epidermis, is a relatively thin stratified squamousepithelium which is itself composed of five strata. Subjacent to theepidermis is the dermis, a dense fibroelastic connective tissue stroma.The third layer, lying beneath the dermis is the subcutaneous layercomposed of areolar and fatty connective tissue.

There are three basic cell types in the epidermis: keratinocytes whichproduce keratin, melanocytes which are involved in pigmentation, andLangerhans cells which aid the immune system by intercepting foreignbodies in the skin. In the epidermis a mitotic layer at the baseprovides keratinocytes which continuously replace those shed at the skinsurface.

The epidermis can be divided into layers according to the stage ofmaturation of keratinocytes within it. These layers are, from deep tosuperficial, as follows: stratum basale, stratum spinosum, stratumgranulosum, stratum lucidum and stratum corneum. The first three ofthese layers are metabolically active, while the two upper layers whichhave attained terminal keratinization constitute the cornified zone.Cells of the stratum corneum eventually become detached from theepidermal surface and are replaced from below. Typically the time takenfor a newly-formed keratinocyte to pass to the surface and be shedranges from 45-75 days. However, under certain pathological conditionsof the skin, turnover rates are much higher. As a result keratinizationis incomplete and-the normal barrier functions of the skin are lost.

The dermis comprises a strong yet flexible layer which consistsprimarily of collagen. This layer, which contains nerves, blood vessels,hair follicles, sebaceous glands and apocrine glands, fulfills vitalroles in thermoregulation and sensory perception. The sebaceous glandsproduce sebum, a natural lipid material which helps to prevent drying,cracking and excessive shedding of the outer layers of the skin.

Compositions for cleansing and moisturizing the skin according to theinvention comprise an antimicrobial agent, an emollient and anabsorption enhancer in combinations as described below.

i. Antimicrobial Component

The present invention provides skin cleansing and moisturizingcompositions, comprising a chemical antimicrobial agent which functionsto inhibit the growth of pathogenic or potentially pathogenic bacteriaand fungi, or to kill such organisms. Thus the chemical antimicrobialagent may be bacteriostatic, bacteriocidal, fungistatic or fungicidal inits action.

A preferred chemical antimicrobial agent for use under the invention isTriclosan. This agent used in the formulation has been found effectiveagainst the whole genera of microoranisms, (for example: bacteria,fungi, pseudomonas aeruginosa, pseudomonas capacia, staphylococcusaureus, escherichia coli, candida albicans, aspergillus niger,salmonella typhimurium, etc . . . ). Apart from its role in preventinginfection via the skin and in preventing the spread and transmission ofpathogenic microorganisms, the antimicrobial component of thecomposition also inhibits the growth of spoilage organisms duringstorage of the product. The antimicrobial chemical agent is normallypresent in an amount of from 0.001-5% by weight, preferably from 0.05-2%by weight, and more preferably from 0.1-1% by weight.

ii. Water Activity Depressant

Compositions according to the invention may also comprise one or morewater activity depressants, the function of which is, in part, toinhibit the growth of microorganisms during product storage and topreserve the product. Water activity depressants, with or without theinclusion of an antibiotic chemical, help to prevent the growth ofspoilage organisms. Examples of water activity depressants includesorbitol, propylene glycol, sugars, and alkali metal salts, includingcarboxylates, halides, and sulfates. A preferred water activitydepressant is sorbitol. The sorbitol component of the composition ispreferably present in a concentration of from 1-20% by weight, morepreferably from 1-10% by weight, and most preferably from 1-2% byweight.

iii. Absorption Carrier for Carrying out the Function of Absorption(Sometimes Referred to as Absorption Enhancer Below It Being Understoodthat These Materials Do Not Enhance Absorption but Actually Carries OutThe Function of Absorption).

Compositions under the invention also comprise one or more absorptioncarrier. The function of such an absorption carrier is, in part, topromote the uptake of the product by the skin. Uptake of the productprevents excessive loss of the product from the skin surface andpromotes product contact with the metabolically active cells of thedermis and epidermis beneath the cornified zone of the stratum lucidumand stratum corneum.

A preferred absorption carrier is ceramic hydroxyapatite. Ceramichydroxyapatite functions as an unbound/excess lipid remover andanti-microbial function enhancer. Ceramic hydroxyapatite used under theinvention is a form of chemically pure calcium phosphate (molecularformula Ca2+10^((PO)4^(3.))6^((OH))2 which is produced as spheres with acontrolled diameter. Preferably the median diameter of ceramichydroxyapatite under the invention is in the range of 1-10 micrometers,more preferably in the range of 2-5 micrometers.

Ceramic hydroxyapatite spheres are manufactured by the agglomeration ofsmall crystals (50-100 nm size range) followed by sintering at hightemperature. As a result of this process, each sphere is porous and canact as a miniature sponge. This characteristic of ceramic hydroxyapatitespheres allows it to absorb, carry, and subsequently release componentsof the composition with which it has been formulated.

Ceramic hydroxyapatite having a mean particle diameter in the range of2-6 micrometers, can act as an efficient absorption and spreading agentfor liquid phase materials. The carrier and absorption enhancingproperties of ceramic hydroxyapatite is due to both its porosity and itsaffinity for various substances. For example, ceramic hydroxyapatite hasthe-ability to bind water, charged molecules, lipids, proteins, andnucleic acids. The porous nature of ceramic hydroxyapatite allows it tobind and then slowly release a relatively large volume of liquid phasematerials.

Due to the small spherical nature of the ceramic hydroxyapatiteparticles, it may also act as a lubricant.

Conventional (i.e. non-ceramic) hydroxyapatite is known to bind tobiological molecules, including proteins, lipoproteins, lipids andnucleic acids ((see, for example, D. Josic et al. Biol. Chem.Hoppe-Seyler 372, 149 (1991); K. J. Primes et al. J. Chromatography,236, 519 (1982); S. Hjerten, Biochim. Biophys. Acta, 31, 216 (1959); G.Bernardi and W. H. Cook, ibid. 44, 96 (1960); R. K. Main et al. J. Am.Chem. Soc. 81, 6490 ((1959); A. Tiselius et al. Arch. Biochem. Biophys.Acta 65, 132 (1956)). However, in comparison to ceramic hydroxyapatite,conventional hydroxyapatite is produced as particles which are moreirregular in shape and in size, and also more fragile. Ceramichydroxyapatite is also superior to conventional hydroxyapatite in thatceramic hydroxyapatite spheres are resistant to high temperature andpressure, and are much more physically stable than conventionalhydroxyapatite. (T. Kadoya et al. J. Liquid Chromatography, 9, 3543(1986). This physical stability allows for the agitation or mixing ofceramic hydroxyapatite without disintegration of the particles. Ceramichydroxyapatite is also more stable chemically than conventionalhydroxyapatite, being stable for at least five years when stored at roomtemperature in dry or hydrated form.

Because hydroxyapatite binds lipids (K. Hobara et al., JOURNAL, YEAR(REACTIONS OF HYDROXYAPATITE WITH LIPIDS) , and K. J. Primes et al. J.Chromatography, 236, 519 (1982)), ceramic hydroxyapatite, under theinvention, may bind to lipid constituents of the instant compositions,as well as to lipid components of the skin. Ceramic hydroxyapatite hasthe additional advantage in the context of the present invention ofbinding to proteins much more strongly than does conventionalhydroxyapatite. In binding to proteins of the skin, ceramichydroxyapatite under the invention can act as a bridge between theproteins of skin cells and bound lipids. The resulting layer of boundlipid molecules can serve as an effective protective film to preventdehydration of, and damage to, the skin.

Finally, ceramic hydroxyapatite, due to its propensity to bind tobiological molecules, may bind to various surface components ofmicrobial cells and promote the immobilization and inactivation ofmicroorganisms.

Ceramic hydroxyapatite is preferably present in compositions under theinvention at a concentration of from 0.001-10%, by weight, morepreferably 0.01-5% by weight, and even more preferably from 0.05-1% byweight.

iv. Vehicle

The compositions according to the invention also comprise a liquid,solid or semi-solid physiologically and cosmetically acceptable vehicleor carrier. A suitable vehicle, under the invention, may act variouslyas solvent, diluent or dispersant for the constituents of thecomposition, and allows for the uniform application of the constituentsto the surface of the skin at an appropriate dilution. It will beapparent to the skilled artisan that the range of possible vehicles isvery broad. In general, compositions according to this invention maycomprise water as a vehicle, and/or at least one physiologically andcosmetically acceptable vehicle other than water.

When water comprises a vehicle in compositions under the invention,preferably the water is deionized. Vehicles other than water that can beused in compositions under the invention may be liquids or solids,including emollients, various solvents, powders, and humectants.Carriers, including water, may be used singly or in combination.Suitable carriers may include, but are not limited to, the followingexamples:

-   -   water    -   castor oil,    -   ethylene glycol monobutyl ether,    -   diethylene glycol monoethyl ether,    -   corn oil,    -   dimethyl sulfoxide,    -   ethylene glycol,    -   isopropanol,    -   soybean oil,    -   glycerin,    -   soluble collagen,    -   zinc oxide,    -   titanium oxide,    -   talc,    -   Kaolin,    -   hyaluronic acid.

The active constituents of the skin care compositions according to theinvention may be soluble or insoluble in a liquid carrier. If the activeconstituents are soluble in the carrier, the carrier acts as solvent forthe active ingredient. If the active constituents are insoluble in thecarrier, they are dispersed in the carrier by means of, for example, asuspension, emulsion, gel, cream or paste, and the like. A preferredvehicle to act as solvent and/or diluent for the active constituents iswater. Various oils, such as vegetable oils obtained from any of corn,sunflower, safflower, soybean, canola, and the like, may also be used'asa vehicle, either alone or in combination. Various oils may also be usedin combination with water following emulsification.

v. Humectant

Compositions under the invention may optionally comprise one or morehumectants, for example:

-   -   dibutyl phthalate,    -   gelatin,    -   glycerin,    -   soluble collagen,    -   sorbitol,    -   sodium 2-pyrrolidone-5-carboxylate        A preferred humectant, under the invention, is glycerin.        vi. Emollient

Compositions under the invention may optionally comprise one or moreemollients, for example,

butane-1,3-diol,

cetyl palmitate,

dimethylpolysiloxane,

glyceryl monoricinoleate,

glyceryl monostearate,

isobutyl palmitate,

isocetyl stearate,

isopropyl palmitate,

isopropyl stearate,

butyl stearate,

isopropyl laurate,

hexyl laurate,

decyl oleate,

isopropyl myristate,

lauryl lactate,

octadecan-2-ol,

caprylic triglyceride

capric triglyceride

palmitic acid,

polyethylene glycol,

propane-1,2-diol,

stearic acid,

triethylene glycol,

sesame oil,

coconut oil,

safflower oil

isoamyl laurate

nonoxynol-9

panthenol

hydrogenated vegetable oil

tocopheryl acetate

tocopheryl linoleate

allantoin

propylene glycol

arachis oil,

castor oil,

isosteatic acid,

palmitic acid,

isopropyl linoleate,

lauryl lactate,

myristyl lactate,

decyl oleate,

myristyl myristate.

vii. Sun Blocking AgentThe compositions, according to the invention, may optionally comprise asun blocking agent. A preferred sun blocking agent under the inventionis octyl palmitateviii. Anti-Inflammatory AgentThe compositions, according to the invention, may optionally comprise ananti-inflammatory agent. Preferred anti-inflammatory agents, under theinvention, include extracts of Aloe vera, panthenol, tocopheryl acetate,and tocopheryl linoleate.ix. PreservativeOther than water activity depressants and antimicrobial components suchas Triclosan, the compositions, according to the invention, mayoptionally comprise one or more preservatives such as polymethoxybycyclic oxazolidine, methyl paraben, propyl paraben, and DMDMhydantoin.x. Viscosity Enhancer or Thickening AgentThe compositions, according to the invention, may optionally comprise aviscosity enhancer or thickening agent. Viscosity enhancers of variousclasses may be chosen, including microbial polysaccharides, such asxanthan gum; cellulose derivatives, such as methylcellulose,carboxymethylcellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose andhydroxyethylcellulose; and sugar alcohols, such as sorbitol.xi. EmulsifierThe compositions, according to the invention, may also comprise one ormore emulsifiers. Preferred emulsifiers under the invention include:polysorbate-60, sorbitol, and sorbitan stearate. Such emulsifiers may beincorporated into the instant compositions singly or in any combination.xii. Vitamins and Vitamin DerivativesThe compositions, according to the invention, may also comprise one ormore ingredients which are vitamins or vitamin derivatives, other thanthose which may be present in other components of the instantcompositions. Vitamins or vitamin derivatives may be incorporated intothe compositions of the invention either singly or in an combination.Examples of vitamins or vitamin derivatives which may be included in thecompositions under the invention include: tocopheryl acetate, tocopheryllinoleate, dicalcium pantothenate, and panthenol.xiii. SurfactantThe compositions, according to the invention, may optionally compriseone or more surfactants. Surfactants used under the invention arepreferably mild or very mild detergents. Preferred surfactants under theinvention include: sodium laureth sulfate, and cocamide DEA.xiv. Citric Acid

The compositions according to the invention may also comprise citricacid., a naturally occurring compound present in both plant and animalcells as an intermediate of the Tricarboxylic acid cycle and inrelatively high concentrations in citrus fruit. It is preferred thatonly plant and no animal byproducts are used. Under the invention,citric acid is preferably present in a concentration of from 0-10% byweight, more preferably from 0-5% by weight, and most preferably from 0to about 2% by weight. The concentration of citric acid may be adjustedslightly to provide a suitable pH.

xv. Allantoin

The composition according to the invention may also comprise allantoin.Allantoin is a natural product which occurs in both plants andanimals-plants being preferable here. Allantoin is considered tostimulate cell proliferation and promote healing of the skin. Theallantoin component of the composition is preferably present in aconcentration of from 0-5% by weight, preferably from 0.01-2% by weight.

xvi. Aloe Vera Components

The composition according to the invention also comprises a cosmeticallyand physiologically acceptable preparation obtained from the Aloe veraplant. Constituents of this plant are reported to prevent infection andto have antifungal properties. The gel obtained from Aloe vera leavesare said to be useful for any dry skin condition, being especiallyuseful around the eyes and sensitive facial skin. The gel has also beenrecommended for treating fungal skin infections. The Aloe vera componentof the composition is preferably present in a concentration of from0.1-10% by weight, more preferably from 0.2-5% by weight, and mostpreferably from 0.5-1.5% by weight.

xvii. Natural Scents

The composition according to the invention also comprises one or morenatural scents, Natural scents added to the skin care compositions underthe invention impart a pleasant, mild scent, and are formulated to avoidany negative impact on the skin such as drying, irritation or allergies.For example, natural scents may be obtained from plant materials in theform of essential oils by the process of fractional distillation, thusavoiding extraction procedures involving organic solvents.

xviii. Other Herbal Extracts

The compositions according to the invention also comprise one or morenatural herbal extracts, including matricaria extract, comfrey extract,and cucumber extract. Under the invention, natural herbal extracts arepreferably present in a concentration of from 0-5% by weight, morepreferably from 0-2% by weight, more preferably from 0 to about 0.8% byweight.

Medicinal use of the herb known as comfrey dates back at least to thetime of the Ancient Egyptian civilization, and it has been widely usedas a herbal remedy for hundreds if not thousands of years (see, forexample, P. Ody (1993) The Complete Medicinal Herbal, DorlingKindersley, London, New York, Stuttgart), Nicholas Culpeper, anElizabethan herbalist listed comfrey as being amongst the most effectivenatural healing agents. The English physician Charles J. Macalister, M.D. used comfrey topically to treat serious skin lesions—with remarkableresults (C. J. Macalister (1936) Narrative of an InvestigationConcerning an Ancient Medicinal Remedy and its Modern Utilities,Republished 1955, The Lee Foundation for Nutritional Research,Milwaukee, Wis.). One constituent of comfrey considered to beresponsible for its medicinal properties is allantoin.

Matricaria is another herb that has been used medicinally sinceantiquity. Among the skin conditions for which Matricaria has beenrecommended are: various sores and wounds, eczema and inflammation.

Without being limited by any theory of mode of action of any of theseconstituents, it is believed that topical use of the instant skin carecompositions not only helps to maintain treated skin in a healthycondition, but also promotes healing of dry, cracked sore, or damagedskin.

ixx. pH

In the case of the skin cleanser composition, the preferred pH is in therange of 6.0 to 8.0; more preferably the pH is in the range of 6.5 to7.5.

The preferred pH of the skin moisturizer composition is in the range of5.0 to 8.0; more preferably the pH is in the range of 6.0 to 7.0.

In one embodiment, the composition of a skin moisturizer under theinvention comprises a humectant, an emollient, an absorption enhancer,an antimicrobial agent, a vitamin or vitamin derivative, herbal extract,natural scents, and a suitable vehicle or carrier.

In a preferred embodiment, the composition of a skin moisturizer underthe invention comprises, for example, the following:

a humectant, such as glycerin;

an absorption enhancer, antimicrobial function enhancer, lipid removalenhancer such as ceramic hydroxyapatite;

an emollient, such as glyceryl stearate, allantoin, or nonoxynol-9;

an antimicrobial agent, such as Triclosan;

an anti-inflammatory agent, such as aloe vera extract, panthenol

an emulsifier, such as polysorbate 60;

a preservative, such as DMDM hydantoin;

a sun block agent, such as octyl palmitate;

a vitamin or vitamin derivative, such as tocopheryl acetate;

a herbal extract, such as comfrey extract, or Matricaria extract;

a natural scent, such as oil of citrus fruit; and a suitable vehicle,such as water.

Methods, under the invention, for preparing a skin moisturizercomposition comprise the steps of formulating the constituents of eachcomposition as four separate Phases, and subsequently combining eachPhase.The skin moisturizer composition may be formulated according to thefollowing Example.

EXAMPLE 1 Formulation of Skin Moisturizer Composition a) Phase 1M

A suitable volume of deionized water at ambient temperature was meteredinto a first stainless steel vessel or tank, and the mixer was turnedon. Ingredients of Phase 1M, comprising nonoxynol-9, aloe vera extractand panthenol were then added, and the mixture was slowly heated to apredetermined temperature. Preferably Phase 1M of the composition isheated to a predetermined temperature in the range of 30 to 95° C., morepreferably in the range of 40 to 90° C., and most preferably in therange of 50 to 80° C. In a preferred embodiment, methyl paraben is addedafter heating has begun, when the temperature of Phase 1M is in therange of 30 to 95° C., more preferably when the temperature of. Phase 1Mis in the range of 40 to 90° C., and most preferably when thetemperature of Phase 1M is in the range of 50 to 80° C.

b) Phase 2M

The ingredients of Phase 2M, comprising glycerin and ceramichydroxyapatite, were combined in a suitable second vessel and mixedthoroughly until completely homogeneous. Phase 2M was added to the firstvessel when the predetermined temperature for Phase 1M had beenattained.

c) Phase 3M

The constituents of Phase 3M, comprising stearic acid, octyl palmitate,tocopheryl acetate, safflower oil, and hydrogenated vegetable oil, werecombined in a stainless steel third vessel, and the mixture was heatedtowards a predetermined temperature. Preferably the predeterminedtemperature for Phase 3M is in the range of 30 to 95° C., morepreferably in the range of 40 to 90° C., and most preferably in therange of 50 to 80° C.

When most of the solid constituents had melted the mixer for the thirdvessel was turned on. When the temperature of the contents of both thethird and first vessels attained their respective predeterminedtemperatures, Phase 3M was added to the first or main vessel, and thecontents were mixed well.

After thorough mixing, heating was discontinued and the contents of thefirst vessel were allowed to cool.

d) Phase 4M

The ingredients of Phase 4M, comprising tocopherol linoleate, matricariaextract and comfrey extract, were combined in a suitable fourth vessel,and heated to a predetermined temperature. Preferably the predeterminedtemperature for Phase 4M is in the range of 30 to 60° C., morepreferably in the range of 35 to 55° C., and most preferably in therange of 40 to 55° C. When the temperature of the contents of the firstvessel were at the same or a similar temperature as the predeterminedtemperature for phase 4, the ingredients of Phase 4 were transferredfrom the fourth vessel to the first vessel with thorough mixing. Heatingwas discontinued and the mixture was allowed to cool.

When the-mixture was at a suitable temperature, preferably in the rangeof 20-40° C., more preferably in the range of 25-35 ° C., natural scentwas added, and the mixture was thoroughly stirred until homogeneous.

The skin moisturizer composition of the current invention provides asmooth lotion which is white or slightly off-white in color, and has adelicate scent of citrus fruit. At a temperature of 25° C., it has a pHin the range of 6-7, a viscosity in the range of 3500-6500 andpreferably 4,400-5,100 centipoise, and a specific gravity near 1.0.

In one embodiment, the composition of a skin cleanser under theinvention comprises an antimicrobial agent, a viscosity enhancer, anabsorption enhancer, an antimicrobial function enhancer and lipidremoval enhancer, a vitamin or vitamin derivative, herbal extract,natural scent, and a suitable vehicle.

In a preferred embodiment, the composition of a skin cleanser under theinvention comprises, for example, the following:

an antimicrobial agent, such as Triciosan;

an absorption enhancer, antimicrobial function enhancer, and lipidremoval enhancer, such as ceramic hydroxyapatite;

an emollient, such as propylene glycol, nonoxynol-9;

an anti-inflammatory agent, such as aloe vera extract, panthenol

a surfactant, such as cocamide DEA, sodium laureth sulfate;

an emulsifier, such as polysorbate 60, sorbitan stearate;

a preservative, such as propyl paraben, methyl paraben;

a sun block agent, such as octyl palmitate

a vitamin or vitamin derivative, such as tocopheryl linoleate;

a herbal extract, such as comfrey- extract, or matricaria extract;

a natural scent, such as oil of cucumber;

and a suitable vehicle, such as water.

Methods, under the invention, for preparing the skin cleansercomposition comprise the steps of formulating the constituents of eachcomposition as four Phases, and subsequently combining each Phasesequentially.The skin cleanser composition may be formulated according to thefollowing Example.

EXAMPLE 2 Formulation of Skin Cleanser Composition a) Phase 1C

A suitable volume of deionized water at ambient temperature was meteredinto a first stainless steel vessel or tank, and the mixer was turnedon. Ingredients of Phase 1C, comprising sodium laureth sulfate aloe veraextract, citric acid and panthenol were then added, and the mixture wasthoroughly stirred.

b) Phase 2C

The ingredients of Phase 2, comprising sorbitol and ceramichydroxyapatite, were combined in a suitable second vessel and mixedthoroughly until completely homogeneous. Phase 2 was added to the firstvessel.

c) Phase 3C

The constituents of Phase 3C, comprising propylene glycol, Nuocept C(Polymethoxy Bycyclic Oxazolidine) and Triclosan, were combined in asuitably sized third vessel, and the contents were thoroughly mixed.Mixing was continued and the mixture was heated until the mixture washomogeneous and it attained a predetermined temperature. Preferably thepredetermined temperature for Phase 3C is in the range of 35 to 95° C.,more preferably in the range of 45 to 85° C., and most preferably in therange of 55 to 75° C.

Heating was discontinued and the mixture was allowed to cool. When thetemperature of Phase 3C in the third vessel was in the range of 15 to35° C., and preferably in the range of 18 to 25° C., Phase 3C wastransferred to the first vessel, and the contents were mixed well.

d) Phase 4C

Mixing of the contents of the first vessel was continued while theingredients of Phase 4C at ambient temperature, comprising nonoxynolcocamide DEA, comfrey extract, and matricaria extract, were addedsequentially to the first vessel.

Finally, natural scent was added to the mixture in the first vessel, andthe mixture was thoroughly stirred until homogeneous.

The skin cleanser composition of the current invention provides asmooth, viscous liquid which is clear to slightly opaque, and has aslight scent of cucumber. At a temperature of 25° C., it has a pH in therange of 6.5-7.5, a viscosity in the range of 3,000-4,000, even morepreferably in the range of 3200-3800 centipoise, and a specific gravitynear approximately 1.0.

A preferred embodiment of the skin moisturizer composition according tothe invention comprises the constituents shown in the following Example.

EXAMPLE 3 Skin Moisturizer Composition

Phase 1 comprises:Deionized water, to 100% w/w

Panthenol, up to 10% w/w

Methyl paraben, up to 5% w/w, andAloe vera extract, up to 7% w/wPhase 2 comprises:Glycerin, up to 10% w/w, andCeramic hydroxyapatite, up to 5% w/wPhase 3 comprises:Stearic acid, up to 10% w/wTocopherol acetate, up to 5% w/wOctyl palmitate, up to 10% w/wSafflower oil, up to 10% w/wHydrogenated vegetable oil, up to 10% w/wPropyl paraben, up to 5% w/w, and

Triclosan, up to 1% w/w.

Phase 4 comprises:Herbal extract (for example, extract of comfrey, matricaria, up to 5%w/wTocopheryl linoleate, up to 5% w/w, and

Allantoin, up to 5% w/w

Oligosaccharides and Hydrolyzed wheat proteinA further constituent of a preferred embodiment of the skin moisturizercomposition is natural oil of citrus in the range of0.01-0.1% w/w.A preferred embodiment of the skin cleanser composition according to theinvention comprises the constituents shown in the following Example.

EXAMPLE 4 Skin Cleanser Composition

Phase 1 comprises:Deionized water, to 100% w/w

Panthenol, up to 10% w/w

Aloe vera extract, up to 7% w/w, andCitric acid, up to 10% w/w.Phase 2 comprises:Sorbitol, up to 10% w/w, andCeramic hydroxyapatite, up to 5% w/w.Phase 3 comprises:Methyl paraben, up to 5% w/wPropyl paraben, up to 5% w/wPropylene glycol, up to 10% w/wDisodium ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, up to 2% w/w, and

Triclosan, up to 1% w/w.

Phase 4 comprises:Herbal extract—for example, extract of comfrey, Matricaria up

1-32. (canceled)
 33. An antimicrobial lotion composition consistingessentially of: (a) an amount of unattached triclosan effective to killmicroorganisms present on the skin; and (b) a physiologically andcosmetically acceptable lotion base formulated to be applied to an lefton healthy skin, wherein said composition is an antimicrobial lotionthat is effective to kill microorganisms present on the skin.
 34. Theantimicrobial lotion according to claim 33, wherein said lotion is freeof petroleum-based ingredients.
 35. The antimicrobial lotion accordingto claim 33, wherein said lotion comprises a preservative.
 36. Theantimicrobial lotion according to claim 35, wherein said preservative ischosen from methyl paraben and propyl paraben.
 37. The antimicrobiallotion according to claim 36, wherein said lotion comprises a vitamin orvitamin derivative.
 38. The antimicrobial lotion according to claim 37,wherein said vitamin or vitamin derivative is panthenol.
 39. Theantimicrobial lotion according to claim 33, wherein said lotioncomprises a scent.
 40. The antimicrobial lotion according to claim 33,wherein said lotion comprises a sunblock.
 41. The antimicrobial lotionaccording to claim 40, wherein said sunblock is octyl palmitate.
 42. Theantimicrobial lotion according to claim 33, wherein said lotion is freeof volatile alcohol.
 43. The antimicrobial lotion according to claim 33,wherein said lotion is water-based.
 44. The antimicrobial lotionaccording to claim 33, wherein said lotion comprises an emollient. 45.The antimicrobial lotion according to claim 33, wherein the effectiveamount of free triclosan is in the range of approximately 0.1 to 1.0 wt.%.
 46. The antimicrobial lotion according to claim 33, wherein thecomposition is free of animal by-products.
 47. An antimicrobial lotioncomposition comprising: (a) an amount of unbound triclosan effective tokill microorganisms present on the skin; (b) an emollient; (c) apreservative; and (b) a physiologically and cosmetically acceptablelotion base formulated to be applied to an left on healthy skin, whereinsaid composition is an antimicrobial lotion that is effective to killmicroorganisms present on the skin.
 48. A method for moisturizing theskin and killing microorganisms thereon, said method comprising:applying to and leaving on healthy skin a moisturizing composition inthe form of an effective antimicrobial lotion comprising: (a) an amountof triclosan effective to kill microorganisms present on the skin; and(b) a physiologically and cosmetically acceptable lotion base formulatedto be applied to an left on healthy skin; to moisturize said healthyskin and kill microorganisms thereon.
 49. The method according to claim48, wherein said lotion is free of petroleum-based ingredients.
 50. Themethod according to claim 48, wherein said lotion is free of volatilealcohol.
 51. The method according to claim 48, wherein said lotioncomprises an emollient.
 52. The method according to claim 48, whereinthe effective amount of free triclosan is in the range of approximately0.1 to 1.0 wt. %.